Podcast Summary: The Moth – "Thomas Dolby: Never Never Land"

Episode Information

• Title: The Moth
• Host/Author: The Moth
• Episode: Thomas Dolby: Never Never Land
• Release Date: May 14, 2012
• Theme: Rock and Roll Saved my Life – Tales of hits and misses

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Moth, legendary synth-pop musician and Silicon Valley entrepreneur Thomas Dolby shares a deeply personal and surreal story titled "Never Never Land." Recorded live in 2002, Dolby's narrative delves into his unexpected encounter with pop icon Michael Jackson and the profound impact it had on his life and career.

Background

Thomas Dolby, renowned for his hit "She Blinded Me with Science," provides listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the music industry in the early 1980s. As an early MTV icon and a pioneer in music technology, Dolby's insights offer a unique perspective on fame, creativity, and the pressures of the music business.

The Story

Arrival in Los Angeles

Dolby begins his story with his rise to fame in the United States. After his song "She Blinded Me with Science" became a Top 10 hit in the US, propelled by relentless MTV airplay alongside Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean," Dolby was thrust into the spotlight. Responding to his American record company's urgent request, he boarded a plane from Brussels to Los Angeles despite battling glandular fever (mononucleosis).

The TV Mishap

Upon arrival, Dolby was greeted by his entourage and taken to a TV studio for a live broadcast. Exhausted and unwell, he faced an embarrassing moment when the wrong version of his song played, causing him to mime inaccurately to the lyrics. Reflecting on this humiliating experience, Dolby noted, "It's like a humiliating experience to add to the state that I'm already in" (06:30).

Meeting Michael Jackson

Desperate for some normalcy, Dolby attempted to call a friend but inadvertently dialed Michael Jackson's number, leading to a surprising and memorable invitation. Despite feeling jet-lagged and ill, he accepted Jackson's offer to visit his mansion in Encino.

The Mansion Encounter

The subsequent journey to Michael Jackson's estate was nothing short of surreal. Dolby described being drenched by torrential rain, only to meet Jackson in his pajamas within a grandiose reception hall adorned with eclectic art treasures. The encounter was both awe-inspiring and disorienting, as Dolby recounted:

"We were having this really nice conversation... it was really inspiring to me to hear this guy telling me, you know, forget what they say. Just carry on believing in your music." (12:45)

The Balcony and the Kids

As their conversation flowed, Dolby noticed children dancing and playing with toys on the mansion's balcony. The scene became more surreal as the kids began interacting with them, adding an unexpected layer of normalcy to the star-studded environment. He shared:

"There's a little disco going on on the balcony of all these little Black kids... pointing and giggling." (14:20)

Reflections on Fame and Media

Dolby's narrative transitions into a reflection on the nature of fame and media scrutiny. He expressed sadness over how Michael Jackson's private life was intensely publicized and judged, contrasting it with his own more fulfilling personal experience with the artist. Dolby emphasized the lasting positive influence Jackson had on him:

"What lasted with me was more the inspiration that I got from it. I met one of my heroes... it was an honor to meet him and to get that charge from him to stick with the music." (16:10)

The Journey Home

The story concludes with Dolby's drive back to his hotel, orchestrated by Jackson's brother Randy. Despite feeling too ill to join a club outing, Dolby appreciated the gesture, highlighting the genuine kindness he experienced amidst the chaos of fame.

Notable Quotes

• Thomas Dolby on Storytelling:
  "You have to be careful when you're telling stories, because people have different ways of thinking about their past." (04:15)

• Dolby on the TV Performance:
  "I'm up there on stage miming to my own song, getting the words wrong. And I'm looking down at the kids in the front row and they know the words." (07:05)

• Conversation with Michael Jackson:
  "You just have to go on believing in your music. And I've always done that." (13:50)

• Dolby on Media Judgment:
  "The media has a way of needing to pass judgment and to moralize about this kind of behavior and this kind of lifestyle. I just thought this was really unfair." (16:50)

Conclusion

Thomas Dolby's "Never Never Land" offers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of achieving fame and the enduring influence of genuine mentorship. His encounter with Michael Jackson serves as a testament to the power of believing in one's art and the importance of maintaining authenticity amid external pressures. Through his vivid storytelling and introspective reflections, Dolby not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons on resilience and integrity in the face of success.

Additional Information

• Thomas Dolby: A legendary synth-pop songwriter, early MTV icon, and Silicon Valley entrepreneur. He serves as the musical director of the TED Conference and recently released his first new album in 20 years, "A Map of the Floating City."
• Support The Moth: As a nonprofit organization, The Moth relies on listeners' support. Consider contributing by visiting themost.org or becoming a member for continued storytelling experiences.

This summary captures the essence of Thomas Dolby's storytelling, highlighting key moments and reflections that define his journey in the music industry and his memorable interaction with Michael Jackson.